Present research work was aimed to study preliminary wound healing activity of different extracts of aerial parts of Enicostema axillare using incision and excision wound models in experimental animals. Aerial parts of Enicostema axillare was extracted successively with petroleum ether, chloroform, acetone, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous solvents and obtained respective extracts. Each extract was tested qualitatively for detection of phytochemicals present in extracts using various chemical tests. Pharmacological screening of all extracts were performed using incision and excision wound models in experimental animals. Wound healing effect was observed by measurement of tensile strength of wound tissue of animals from incision model. Wound contraction measurement and biochemical estimation of wound tissue was performed in excision wound model. Results of present study was confirmed that methanol extract of Enicostema axillare was showed significant (P<0.05) increase in tensile strength of wound tissue on 9th day. Higher percentage of wound contraction was observed with methanol extract between day 8-16th and complete healing was observed on 18th day. This fast healing also supported by significant (P<0.05) increase in hydroxyproline and protein content of wound tissue in excision model. Effect was compared with the marketed formulation (Povidone-Iodine ointment). In conclusion, healing effect of methanol extract of Enicostema axillare may be contributed by phenolic compounds, flavonoids and glycosides present in the extract.

Diphtheria remains a significant public health concern in India despite the availability of routine immunization. This survey-based review analyzes national surveillance data (2020–2024), WHO–UNICEF immunization reports, and responses from frontline healthcare workers to assess the current trends, antitoxin accessibility, and challenges in early diagnosis. Findings indicate a shift in disease burden from young children to adolescents and young adults, mainly due to waning immunity and low booster-dose coverage. Limited availability of Diphtheria Antitoxin (DAT), delays in procurement, and cold-chain constraints continue to affect timely case management across several states. Early diagnosis also remains difficult because initial symptoms resemble common upper respiratory infections, primary-care staff have limited training, and rapid diagnostic tools are not uniformly available. Overall, the survey highlights an urgent need for improved booster-dose coverage, decentralized DAT stock management, and stronger early-detection systems to reduce diphtheria-related morbidity and mortality in India.